In this article, the widely used non-derivatizing cellulose solvents are summarized, including their dissolution mechanisms. Regenerated cellulose materials with different functions and properties have been designed and fabricated in different forms, such as filaments, films/membranes, microspheres/beads, hydrogels/aerogels and bioplastics, etc., to meet various demands. The concept of regeneration through a physical process is illustrated, and a number of novel regenerated cellulose materials are introduced for wide applications in textiles, packaging, biomedicine, water treatment, optical/electrical devices, agriculture and food, etc. The methodology of material processing and the resultant properties and functions are also covered in this review, with emphasis on the neat regenerated cellulose materials and the composite materials. The 277 references cited concerning the direct preparation of cellulose materials via physical dissolution and regeneration are representative of the wide impact and benefits of the regenerated cellulose materials to society.