From what I gather, each feature comes with a cost. What features are worth having for the increase in cost associated? Below is an attempt to classify features, the assumed benefit) and costs along with an example of a representative scope.
Tracking Reliability = $400 (SWFA SS 10x)
+Variable Magnification (Aquire targets faster with FOV) = $700 (SWFA SS 3-15x)
+34mm & Zero Stop & Illumination (Overcome scenarios) = $1100 (Burris XTR ii 3-15x)
+High Density Glass (see target, avoid headaches) = $2000 (Sig Sauer Tango 6 3-18x)
+High Precision Tracking = $2300(Steiner T5xi 3-15x)
+Rugged Durability = $3200 (Steiner M5xi 3-15x)
What features are worth the coin?
It's all a matter of use and perspective. What works for one person and their intended use may not be as useful as it is for another person and what they intend to do. Hunting, shooting paper or steel, or preparing for the worst?
Tracking would be tops on my list for getting out beyond 700 yards, and a zero stop would be nice.
Good glass is very helpful, but as Rex has said, it's hard to find bad glass these days.
Illumination is an item that's down on my list, even though both of my scopes have it. I get to shoot in the dark once a year, and find that a very little illumination goes a long way.
I don't intend on jumping out of any airplanes or choppers, but if something causes my rig to fall a foot or two, I don't want to have to send the scope for repairs.
So, like most things in life, you have to decide what you need,what you desire, and what you can live without-in other words, afford.
Bet recommendation, keep watching and reading reviews, and take everything said with a grain of salt. Also, get to a seminar as soon as you can, it will be a blast!