Refers to a military person, especially a seasoned or strong fighter. Often used in historical or dramatic contexts.
He has the bravery of a warrior from the Warring States period.
Many soldiers were stationed at this castle.
strong person; capable person; master
Figurative use: a person of great ability, courage, or strength in any field, not just military. Often written in kana.
He is known as a master in the industry.
That newcomer is quite a capable person.
強者 describes a skilled or dominant player, contrasting with 雑魚's slang meaning of a weak, inexperienced player.
great warrior; mighty soldier
Standard kanji spelling for the 'soldier/warrior' sense; also used figuratively.
Kana spelling is common for the figurative 'strong/capable person' sense.
Katakana spelling sometimes used for emphasis or in informal writing.
Kanji spelling emphasizing 'strong person'; used for the figurative sense.
Derived from classical Japanese つはもの, originally meaning 'weapon' or 'armor', later shifting to 'soldier' and then to 'strong person'. The kanji 兵 is an ateji for the soldier sense; 強者 is a later semantic spelling for the figurative sense.